Jacksonville Dog Bite Attorney

Ready to Hold Dog Owners Liable

Dog bites can cause serious physical injuries, emotional trauma, and unexpected financial burdens. If you or a loved one has been bitten or attacked by a dog in Jacksonville, FL, you may have the right to seek compensation. At Edwards & Ragatz, P.A., our experienced Jacksonville dog bite lawyers are committed to helping injury victims pursue justice and recover damages for their losses. We understand Florida’s dog bite laws and will work tirelessly to protect your rights.

Call (904) 295-1050 today or contact us online to schedule your free case review.

Florida Dog Bite Law

Under Florida Statute § 767.04, dog owners are strictly liable for injuries caused by their dogs, even if the dog has never shown aggression before. This means a dog owner can be held responsible for a bite, regardless of whether they knew the dog was dangerous.

To establish liability under Florida law, a victim must show that:

1. They were lawfully in a public place or on private property (including the dog owner’s property) when the bite occurred
2. They did not provoke the dog

Strict liability does not require proof of negligence. However, a dog owner may reduce their liability if the victim was trespassing or if the owner had a clearly visible “Bad Dog” sign posted (with exceptions for children under six).

Even if a “Bad Dog” sign is posted, the owner may still be liable under negligence principles—such as if they failed to restrain the dog, ignored leash laws, or did not prevent a known aggressive dog from escaping.

Dog owners can also be held liable for non-bite injuries—for example, if a dog knocks someone over or chases them into traffic—under general negligence standards.

Recovering Compensation After a Dog Bite in FL

Dog bite injuries can range from minor scratches to severe wounds requiring surgery, and often leave lasting physical and emotional scars. If you were injured in a dog attack, you may be eligible to pursue compensation for:

• Medical Expenses: Emergency treatment, surgery, rehabilitation, plastic surgery, and future care
• Lost Wages: Income lost while recovering and any diminished earning capacity
• Pain and Suffering: Physical pain, trauma, anxiety, and PTSD
• Scarring and Disfigurement: Especially for bites to the face, arms, or legs
• Emotional Distress: Particularly for child victims or individuals with long-term psychological effects
• Property Damage: If clothing or personal property (like eyeglasses) was damaged during the incident

In some cases, punitive damages may be available if the dog owner’s behavior was especially reckless—such as encouraging the dog to attack or knowingly harboring a dangerous animal in violation of the law.

FAQs About Dog Bite Claims in Jacksonville, FL

How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in Florida?

Florida’s statute of limitations for personal injury cases—including dog bites—is two years from the date of the incident. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to compensation. It’s best to contact a dog bite lawyer in Jacksonville as soon as possible to protect your rights.

Can I still file a claim if the dog owner is a friend or neighbor?

Yes. Most dog bite claims are paid by homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, not out-of-pocket by the dog owner. This means you can seek compensation without causing financial hardship to a friend or neighbor.

What if my child was bitten by a dog?

Children are particularly vulnerable to dog attacks and often suffer more severe injuries. Florida law provides strong protections for children, especially those under six years old. For example, the “Bad Dog” sign defense does not apply to young children. Our firm will pursue full compensation on behalf of your child and your family.

Do I need to prove the dog had bitten someone before?

No. Florida’s strict liability statute applies even if it’s the dog’s first bite. You do not need to prove prior attacks or that the owner knew the dog was dangerous.

What if I was partially at fault for the bite?

Florida follows a modified comparative fault system. If you were partially responsible—such as by provoking the dog—your compensation may be reduced proportionally. However, if you are found more than 50% at fault, you may not recover damages. A lawyer can help argue against unfair blame and maximize your recovery.

How a Jacksonville Dog Bite Lawyer Can Help

Navigating a dog bite claim can be complicated, especially when dealing with insurance companies or disputes about liability. A skilled Jacksonville dog bite attorney from Edwards & Ragatz, P.A. can help you by:

• Investigating the incident and gathering evidence
• Identifying all responsible parties
• Calculating the full value of your claim
• Negotiating with the dog owner’s insurance company
• Filing a lawsuit if necessary to secure fair compensation=

Call (904) 295-1050 today for a free consultation.